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Product Description

Jai Alai, a game native to the Basque region of Spain, is played on a court called a fronton. Jai Alai players attempt to catch a ball using a curved mitt whilst the ball travels at speeds up to 188mph! Proving they have a sense of humor the Spanish dubbed this game, with its ball traveling at racecar speeds, “the merry game.” Tampa was once home to a bustling Jai Alai fronton but sadly all that remains of Jai Alai in the Tampa Bay area is this India Pale Ale that we brew in tribute to the merry game. The India Pale Ale style of beer has its roots in the ales sent from England to thirsty British troops in India during the 18th century. Pair Jai Alai India Pale Ale with Beef Empanadas, Deviled Crabs and other spicy dishes.

Drizly Expert Notes

Cigar City Jai Alai is Cigar City Brewing's flagship IPA. Cigar City utilizes the Latin culture of Florida in their beer names and recipes. Cigar City Brewery gets its name from the historical tobacco-manufacturing region of Tampa Bay. This brewery is best known for its adjunct-laden stouts, porters, and brown ales. However, their flagship IPA, Jai Alai, which was first brewed in 2009, has become a mainstay for hoppy beer lovers in Florida and beyond. The name, Jai Alai, is a tribute to the game hailing from the Basque region of Spain, similar to handball, where players attempt to catch a ball traveling at great speeds. The game, which has been called the fastest game in the world, was once played in Tampa, but, unfortunately, no longer is.

Cigar City Jai Alai comes in a snazzy green and orange 12-ounce can with images of hops lining the can. It pours a bright, clear yellow with a large, fluffy, pillowy, white head that lingers for quite awhile. A citrusy aroma leads the way followed by lemon, pepper and tangerines. The taste of the beer is dominated by citrus and tangerines followed by resin and black pepper on the back end. There is a slight bitterness to Jai Alai, being a 7.5% alcohol by volume IPA, however, the citrusy flavor masks the alcohol very well. The mouth feel is tropical, smooth and very easy drinking. Overall, this is a very well balanced, tropical easy drinking IPA.

Hop heads and casual beer drinkers alike can enjoy Jai Alai year round in a quiet setting where one can reflect on the nuances of this great beer. Likewise, it can be enjoyed at a party with friends and family since the affordable six-pack allows this beer to be savored without breaking the bank.